Vitamin E Bioavailability: Mechanisms of Intestinal Absorption in the Spotlight

Health Benefits of Palm Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

CONTEXT

Vitamin E, a well-known antioxidant with numerous positive effects on human health, encompasses tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF), a natural variant abundant in palm oil.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review analyzed findings from randomized controlled trials published until 2022 to evaluate the health impacts of palm TRF.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search was performed in Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, OVID Medline, SCOPUS, and Web of Science from inception until December 2022. Thirty studies involving 2646 patients, including both healthy individuals and those with underlying conditions, were identified.

RESULTS

This review shows palm TRF to be a promising natural supplement against inflammation and lipid peroxidation and that can significantly enhance overall health. Additionally, the study underscores the necessity for further research to ascertain the optimal dosage, formulation, and duration of supplementation, maximizing the potential health advantages.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review provides evidence supporting the health benefits associated with palm TRF.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020204070.

Fattening Pigs with Tannin-Rich Source (Ceratonia siliqua L.) and High Doses of Vitamin E: Effects on Growth Performance, Economics, Digestibility, Physiology, and Behaviour

This study aimed to assess the impact on growth, economic results, apparent nutrient digestibility (CTTAD), physiological variables, and animal behaviour when 214 fattening pigs (78 ± 8.5 kg of initial body weight and 130 ± 4.5 days of age) of both sexes (gilts and boars) were fed two levels of carob pulp (Cp, 0 vs. 20%) and two doses of vitamin E (Vit E, 30 vs. 300 IU/kg) for 40 days. No interaction effects between factors studied (Cp, Vit E, and sex) were observed on the variables. Most productive traits were unaffected by Cp or Vit E inclusion. However, the Cp increased the feed conversion ratio during the first 20 days. The Cp group showed a higher CTTAD of ether extract and hemicellulose but lower CTTAD of crude protein. Pigs fed Cp had a lower plasmatic urea content than the control group. The high Vit E doses increased the CTTAD of every nutrient and the plasmatic α-tocopherol content. The pigs fed Cp tended to spend more time eating in the early morning, likely to mitigate tannins' astringent effects. Dietary inclusion of 20% Cp in finishing high-conformation pigs is possible without affecting overall performance though it reduces nutrient CTTAD and increases feeding cost. Supra-nutritional doses of Vit E do not affect pig performance but increase the α-tocopherol deposition with potential antioxidant effects.

An insight into vitamin E and lipid nutrition of the plains-wanderer Pedionomus torquatus

Vitamin E, as α-tocopherol, is an essential antioxidant protecting the body from free radicals. The vitamin E requirement of managed wildlife species is known to be greater than their wild counterparts, predominantly due to higher dietary lipid content and potentially stressful environments. The plains-wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus, Family Pedionomidae [monotypical]) is a critically endangered, superficially quail-like bird that is the focus of an ongoing captive breeding programme in Australia. It is estimated that plains-wanderers have a high vitamin E requirement (compared with domestic poultry species) to offset a high lipid diet and their naturally flighty temperament. This study therefore aims to gain a greater understanding of the nutritional status and vitamin E requirements of plains-wanderers in managed environments. Total lipid and α-tocopherol intake were quantified for 26 zoo-managed plains-wanderers over a series of diet intake trials in addition to measurement of plasma α-tocopherol and cholesterol concentrations. Plains-wanderers that consumed higher portions of dietary fat had significantly lower circulating α-tocopherol concentrations than birds that consumed lower total dietary fat (p < .001). Additionally, plasma cholesterol concentrations of managed plains-wanderers were found to be significantly greater than all other bird species reviewed, irrespective of Family or feeding type. We also present the first published data quantifying the nutritional makeup of stomach contents of a wild plains-wanderer for use as a potential guide for diet formulation. This study forms a vital foundational insight into the nutritional management of plains-wanderers, but further research is required to understand their dietary habits and cholesterol metabolism.

Vitamin A, D, E, and K as Matrix Metalloproteinase-2/9 Regulators That Affect Expression and Enzymatic Activity

Fat-soluble vitamins (vitamin A, D, E, and K) assume a pivotal role in maintaining human homeostasis by virtue of their enzymatic functions. The daily inclusion of these vitamins is imperative to the upkeep of various physiological processes including vision, bone health, immunity, and protection against oxidative stress. Current research highlights fat-soluble vitamins as potential therapeutics for human diseases, especially cancer. Fat-soluble vitamins exert their therapeutic effects through multiple pathways, including regulation of matrix metalloproteinases' (MMPs) expression and enzymatic activity. As MMPs have been reported to be involved in the pathology of various diseases, such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders, regulating the expression and/or activity of MMPs could be considered as a potent therapeutic strategy. Here, we summarize the properties of fat-soluble vitamins and their potential as promising candidates capable of effectively modulating MMPs through multiple pathways to treat human diseases.

Can vitamin E ester derivatives be excellent alternatives of vitamin E: state of art

Vitamin E (VE) is a natural antioxidant which is widely used in the food fields, while the shortcomings of easy oxidative inactivation and poor water solubility limit its application. Vitamin E esters' (VEEs) derivatives, such as vitamin E acetate (VEA), are more stable and easier to be absorbed while have similar biological activities and physiological functions compared with VE. In this systematic review, the digestion, absorption and physiological function of VEEs were summarized. To promote their further industrial applications, the synthesis strategies of VEEs were also summarized in-depth. In particular, as a new generation of green solvents, ionic liquids (ILs) have been widely used in enzymatic reactions due to the stabilization and activation of enzymes. Their applications in enzymatic synthesis of VEEs were summarized and discussed. Finally, several future perspectives for developing more efficiency strategies of VEEs synthesis, such as enzyme engineering and design of novel ILs, were also discussed.

Vitamin E Treatment Improves the Antioxidant Capacity of Patients Receiving Dialysis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

SCOPE

To summarize the effect of vitamin E-coated dialyzer membranes (VEMs) treatment or oral vitamin E intake on antioxidant molecules, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant level in patients receiving dialysis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A literature search of PubMed, Embase, CNKI, and the Cochrane Library databases is performed from inception to July 1, 2023, with no language nor country restrictions. Twenty-four experimental studies involving 512 patients undergoing dialysis are selected for meta-analysis. The levels of antioxidant markers in the blood of patients receiving hemodialysis (HD) improve with long-term VEMs treatment (p = 0.016). According to the findings of each antioxidant index, there is a significant increase in the levels of erythrocyte-derived SOD (p = 0.047), CAT (p = 0.029), and plasma-derived total antioxidant level (p < 0.001). The antioxidant marker levels in patients receiving HD are significantly increased by oral vitamin E intake (p < 0.001). Erythrocyte-derived SOD (p = 0.003), GPX (p < 0.001), and CAT (p = 0.001) substantially improves after 2-6 months of intervention with oral vitamin E preparation. The antioxidant index of patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) is unaffected by oral vitamin E treatment (p = 0.945).

CONCLUSION

Vitamin E therapy has a favorable effect on the retention of antioxidant compounds in patients undergoing dialysis.

A Review of Foods of Plant Origin as Sources of Vitamins with Proven Activity in Oxidative Stress Prevention according to EFSA Scientific Evidence

Beyond their nutritional benefits, vitamins could decrease the risk of chronic diseases due to their potent antioxidant capacity. The present work is aimed at reviewing the state of the art regarding (1) the vitamins involved in oxidative stress prevention in accordance with the requirements established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and (2) the foods of plant origin that are sources of those vitamins and have potential benefits against oxidative stress in humans. According to the European regulations based on EFSA scientific evidence, riboflavin, vitamin C, and vitamin E are those vitamins subjected to the approved health claim "contribute to the protection of cells from oxidative stress". Scientific studies conducted in humans with some natural food sources of riboflavin (almonds, wheat germ, mushrooms, oat bran), vitamin C (guava, kale, black currant, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, orange), and vitamin E (hazelnuts, almonds, peanuts, pistachio nuts, extra virgin olive oil, dates, rye) have been performed and published in the literature. However, no food of plant origin has obtained a favorable EFSA opinion to substantiate the approval of health claims related to its potential properties related to oxidative stress prevention. Further studies (concretely, well-controlled human intervention studies) must be carried out in accordance with EFSA requirements to provide the highest level of scientific evidence that could demonstrate the potential relationship between foods of plant origin and antioxidant capacity. This review could be useful for the scientific community to study the application of health claims referring to the antioxidant capacity potentially exerted by foods of plant origin.

Vitamin E - a scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023

Current evidence suggests that dietary vitamin E (as α-tocopherol) intake has a beneficial role in preventing certain chronic diseases. In contrast, there is no clear evidence for the benefit of α-tocopherol supplements in a generally healthy population. Deficiency symptoms are rare and mainly occur due to genetic or other factors affecting α-tocopherol absorption and/or metabolism, rather than a low α-tocopherol intake. No qualified systematic review was identified by the NNR2023 project for updating the dietary reference values (DRV).

Vitamins as regulators of calcium-containing kidney stones - new perspectives on the role of the gut microbiome

Calcium-based kidney stone disease is a highly prevalent and morbid condition, with an often complicated and multifactorial aetiology. An abundance of research on the role of specific vitamins (B6, C and D) in stone formation exists, but no consensus has been reached on how these vitamins influence stone disease. As a consequence of emerging research on the role of the gut microbiota in urolithiasis, previous notions on the contribution of these vitamins to urolithiasis are being reconsidered in the field, and investigation into previously overlooked vitamins (A, E and K) was expanded. Understanding how the microbiota influences host vitamin regulation could help to determine the role of vitamins in stone disease.

Electronic cigarettes can damage lingual papillae and taste buds. Can vitamins C and E supplementation reverse this damage?

AIMS

This histological study focuses on the impact of electronic cigarette liquid (EC) on lingual papillae, especially taste buds, compare it to nicotine, and investigates the potential of vitamins in reversing these unwanted changes.

MAIN METHODS

40 adult male rats were allocated into 5 groups. Control injected saline intraperitoneally, electronic cigarettes group injected EC-liquid containing nicotine of dose (0.75 mg/kg), electronic cigarette group injected EC-liquid then supplemented orally with vitamins C and E, nicotine group injected pure nicotine of dose (0.75 mg/kg) and lastly nicotine group injected with pure nicotine of dose (0.75 mg/kg) then supplemented orally with vitamins C and E. Keratin surface area and the ratio between taste buds and its epithelial covering surface areas in fungiform papillae were measured.

KEY FINDINGS

Histological examination of EC group revealed abnormal epithelial stratification and mitotic figs. EC plus V group showed intact basal cell layer. N group showed better histological stratification than EC group. Fungiform and circumvallate papillae in EC and N groups showed distorted appearance of taste buds. Histomorphometry analysis showed a significant decrease in taste buds to epithelium surface areas in EC, nicotine, and EC plus V groups, p-value (<0.05). There was no significant difference between control and N plus V groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

Administration of vitamins C and E showed preservation of normal histological features of the lingual mucous membrane. EC caused striking damage to taste buds even after the administration of vitamins. The negative effects of electronic cigarettes are not confined only to the presence of nicotine.

Comparative bioavailability of vitamins in human foods sourced from animals and plants

Vitamins are essential components of enzyme systems involved in normal growth and function. The quantitative estimation of the proportion of dietary vitamins, that is in a form available for utilization by the human body, is limited and fragmentary. This review provides the current state of knowledge on the bioavailability of thirteen vitamins and choline, to evaluate whether there are differences in vitamin bioavailability when human foods are sourced from animals or plants. The bioavailability of naturally occurring choline, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K in food awaits further studies. Animal-sourced foods are the almost exclusive natural sources of dietary vitamin B-12 (65% bioavailable) and preformed vitamin A retinol (74% bioavailable), and contain highly bioavailable biotin (89%), folate (67%), niacin (67%), pantothenic acid (80%), riboflavin (61%), thiamin (82%), and vitamin B-6 (83%). Plant-based foods are the main natural sources of vitamin C (76% bioavailable), provitamin A carotenoid β-carotene (15.6% bioavailable), riboflavin (65% bioavailable), thiamin (81% bioavailable), and vitamin K (16.5% bioavailable). The overview of studies showed that in general, vitamins in foods originating from animals are more bioavailable than vitamins in foods sourced from plants.

Vitamin E (α-Tocopherol) Does Not Ameliorate the Toxic Effect of Bisphenol S on the Metabolic Analytes and Pancreas Histoarchitecture of Diabetic Rats

This study investigated whether the coadministration of vitamin E (VitE) diminishes the harmful effects provoked by plasticizer bisphenol S (BPS) in the serum metabolites related to hepatic and renal metabolism, as well as the endocrine pancreatic function in diabetic male Wistar rats. Rats were divided into five groups (n = 5-6); the first group was healthy rats (Ctrl group). The other four groups were diabetic rats induced with 45 mg/kg bw of streptozotocin: Ctrl-D (diabetic control); VitE-D (100 mg/kg bw/d of VitE); BPS-D (100 mg/kg bw/d of BPS); The animals from the VitE + BPS-D group were administered 100 mg/kg bw/d of VitE + 100 mg/kg bw/d of BPS. All compounds were administered orally for 30 days. Body weight, biochemical assays, urinalysis, glucose tolerance test, pancreas histopathology, proximate chemical analysis in feces, and the activity of antioxidants in rat serum were assessed. The coadministration of VitE + BPS produced weight losses, increases in 14 serum analytes, and degeneration in the pancreas. Therefore, the VitE + BPS coadministration did not have a protective effect versus the harmful impact of BPS or the diabetic metabolic state; on the contrary, it partially aggravated the damage produced by the BPS. VitE is likely to have an additive effect on the toxicity of BPS.

Bioaccessibility of Tocols in Commercial Maize Hybrids Determined by an In Vitro Digestion Model for Poultry

Despite the high proportion of maize grain in animal diets, the contribution made by maize phytochemicals is neglected. Tocols and their contribution to the vitamin E content of animal diets are one example, exacerbated by sparse information on the tocol bioaccessibility of commercial hybrids. In this study, the contents of individual and total tocols and their bioaccessibility were determined in the grain samples of 103 commercial hybrids using a standardized INFOGEST digestion procedure. In the studied hybrids, total tocol content ranged from 19.24 to 54.44 µg/g of dry matter. The contents of micellar α-, γ-, δ-tocopherols, γ-tocotrienol, and total tocols correlated positively with the corresponding contents in the grain samples of the studied hybrids. In contrast, a negative correlation was observed between the bioaccessibility of γ- tocopherol, α- and γ-tocotrienol, and total tocols, along with the corresponding contents in the grain of studied hybrids. The highest bioaccessibility was exhibited by γ-tocotrienol (532.77 g/kg), followed by δ-tocopherol (529.88 g/kg), γ-tocopherol (461.76 g/kg), α-tocopherol (406.49 g/kg), and α-tocotrienol (359.07 g/kg). Overall, there are significant differences in the content and bioaccessibility of total and individual tocols among commercial maize hybrids, allowing the selection of hybrids for animal production based not only on crude chemical composition but also on the content of phytochemicals.

The Dark Side of Cannabidiol: The Unanticipated Social and Clinical Implications of Synthetic Δ8-THC

Introduction: The explosive growth of the cannabis industry in the United States over the past decade has spurred a multitude of products derived from phytocannabinoids produced by Cannabis sativa L. Decades of cannabis prohibition coupled with the more recent 2018 Farm Bill have lead to several unanticipated consequences and the widespread availability of synthetic cannabinoids derived from hemp CBD, including Δ8-THC, Δ10-THC and HHC. Methods: Herein, we review the available literature of the complexity of the chemistry of its current manufacture, namely, the acid-catalyzed ring closure of cannabidiol (ACRCC), the myriad of issues involving the unsolved technical problems with quality control of ACRCC-Δ8-THC and the multitude of isomerized byproducts, and the lack of consistent regulation regarding consumer safety and labeling. Results: We provide what we believe is the first comprehensive listing of all the documented ACRCC-Δ8-THC byproducts. Perhaps, most importantly, we highlight the growing concern that, other than Δ8-THC itself, the compounds in ACRCC-Δ8-THC product mixtures have not been subjected to any human toxicological evaluation. This is especially troubling as ACRCC-Δ8-THC products relate to vaping, and their contribution to a growing and lethal epidemic of electronic cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury (EVALI). Conclusions: Quality control is totally inadequate in the newly emerging Δ8-THC industry. American consumers are ingesting products that are mislabeled with many compounds that have never received any toxicological testing. EVALI cases continue to be reported with a fatality rate approaching 2% (in California).

Phytochemical characterization of oil and protein fractions isolated from Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica) wine by-product

The wine industry generates large quantities of by-products each year. Therefore, this work aimed to isolate and evaluate the oil and protein fractions of Japanese quince (Chaenomeles japonica, JQ) press residue, offering a partial utilization of valuable bioactive compounds of wine industry by-products. To study the JQ oil extract yield, composition and oxidation stability, we modified the co-solvent composition during the supercritical CO₂ (SC-CO₂) extraction of oil by adding different ethanol content. The remaining defatted material was used for the isolation of proteins. The SC-CO₂ extraction yielded oil rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, and phytosterols. The use of ethanol as a co-solvent increased the oil yield but did not enhance its oxidative stability or content of antioxidants. We recovered protein isolate after removing tannins with 70% ethanol extraction in the next step. The JQ protein isolate contained all essential amino acids. In addition to its balanced amino acid composition, the protein isolate exhibited excellent emulsifying properties highlighting its potential as a food additive. In conclusion, JQ wine by-products can be utilized for the extraction of oil and protein fractions which can be used in food or cosmetic product formulation.

An Updated Overview on the Role of Small Molecules and Natural Compounds in the "Young Science" of Rejuvenation

Aging is a gradual process that occurs over time which leads to a progressive decline of cells and tissues. Telomere shortening, genetic instability, epigenetic alteration, and the accumulation of misfolded proteins represent the main hallmarks that cause perturbed cellular functions; this occurs in conjunction with the progression of the so-called "aging clocks". Rejuvenation aims to influence the natural evolution of such aging clocks and to enhance regenerative capacity, thus overcoming the limitations of common anti-aging interventions. Current rejuvenation processes are based on heterochronic parabiosis, cell damage dilution through asymmetrical cell division, the excretion of extracellular vesicles, the modulation of genetic instability involving G-quadruplexes and DNA methylation, and cell reprogramming using Yamanaka factors and the actions of antioxidant species. In this context, we reviewed the most recent contributions that report on small molecules acting as senotherapeutics; these molecules act by promoting one or more of the abovementioned processes. Candidate drugs and natural compounds that are being studied as potential rejuvenation therapies act by interfering with CDGSH iron-sulfur domain 2 (CISD2) expression, G-quadruplex structures, DNA methylation, and mitochondrial decay. Moreover, direct and indirect antioxidants have been reported to counteract or revert aging through a combination of mixed mechanisms.

A randomized, crossover study to evaluate α-tocopherol bioavailability via a microemulsion gel or dry tablet delivery in healthy adults

BACKGROUND

Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) is an essential micronutrient for human health and optimal physiological function. Inadequacy may be common due to a lack of bioavailability. The use of dietary lipids alongside other emulsification agents may elicit more robust serum concentrations of α-tocopherol via improved bioavailability. Therefore, the aim of the study was to examine oral bioavailability of two delivery methods of α-tocopherol, (1) a microemulsion gel formula composed of dietary lipids and other emulsification agents and (2) a dry solid tablet over 12 hours.

METHODS

Twelve participants (age  =  37.3  ±  9.6 years; height  =  173.4  ±  11.8 cm; body mass  =  71.2  ±  10.0 kg) participated in a double-blind, randomized, crossover trial comparing two delivery methods both dosed at 288 mg of α-tocopherol. Serum α-tocopherol concentrations were assessed from blood donated by participants at pre-consumption, 2-, 4-, 8-, and 12-hour post-consumption. Study conditions were separated by a 7-day washout.

RESULTS

The microemulsion gel formula delivery demonstrated significantly greater area under the curve (p < 0.001) and serum concentration maximums (p  =  0.003) for serum α-tocopherol compared to the tablet delivery. No significant differences were detected between conditions for the time to reach concentration maximums (p  =  0.375).

CONCLUSION

We conclude that a mixture of dietary lipids and emulsification agents in the form of a microemulsion gel formula was able to significantly improve bioavailability of serum α-tocopherol compared to a tablet by yielding higher serum α-tocopherol maximum concentrations and area under the curve over a 12-hour study period despite dosage being matched.

Natural Compounds and Products from an Anti-Aging Perspective

Aging is a very complex process that is accompanied by a degenerative impairment in many of the major functions of the human body over time. This inevitable process is influenced by hereditary factors, lifestyle, and environmental influences such as xenobiotic pollution, infectious agents, UV radiation, diet-borne toxins, and so on. Many external and internal signs and symptoms are related with the aging process and senescence, including skin dryness and wrinkles, atherosclerosis, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, etc. Oxidative stress, a consequence of the imbalance between pro- and antioxidants, is one of the main provoking factors causing aging-related damages and concerns, due to the generation of highly reactive byproducts such as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species during the metabolism, which result in cellular damage and apoptosis. Antioxidants can prevent these processes and extend healthy longevity due to the ability to inhibit the formation of free radicals or interrupt their propagation, thereby lowering the level of oxidative stress. This review focuses on supporting the antioxidant system of the organism by balancing the diet through the consumption of the necessary amount of natural ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), essential amino acids, probiotics, plants’ fibers, nutritional supplements, polyphenols, some phytoextracts, and drinking water.

Assessment of the Effects of Genotype, Location, and Planting Season on the Nutritional Composition and the Metabolizable Energy of Advanced Twenty-Five Maize Hybrids

This study investigated the effects of genotype, location, and planting season on the proximate composition and metabolizable energy of advanced maize hybrids. Twenty-five hybrid maize and a local variety as control were harvested from five locations 100 days after planting for two seasons. The maize samples were sorted, cleaned, and pulverized using a laboratory mill and were analyzed for nutritional composition and metabolizable energy (ME) using standard laboratory methods. Moisture content, ash, fat, and protein had mean ± SD of 8.97 ± 0.40%, 1.48 ± 0.05%, 4.31 ± 0.19, and 8.88 ± 0.18%, respectively. ME had a mean ± SD of 379.77 ± 2.17 kJ, and total carbohydrates had values ranging from 74.68 and 77.20%, with an average of 76.68%. Results showed that most of the variations expressed in the proximate compositions of the maize hybrids were not significantly (p > 0.05) dependent on the genotypes. In contrast, locations significantly affected the maize hybrids’ proximate composition and metabolizable energy (p < 0.001). In addition, there was no significant effect (p > 0.05) of location by genotype interaction on the proximate composition and ME of the maize samples. The planting season also exhibited a significant (p < 0.001) difference for all the proximate parameters. Fourteen out of the twenty-five maize hybrids were similar to the local variety in terms of proximate composition and metabolizable energy. Therefore, they could be recommended for advancement in the breeding stages for release for household and industrial uses.

Revisiting the therapeutic potential of tocotrienol

The therapeutic potential of the tocotrienol group stems from its nutraceutical properties as a dietary supplement. It is largely considered to be safe when consumed at low doses for attenuating pathophysiology as shown by animal models, in vitro assays, and ongoing human trials. Medical researchers and the allied sciences have experimented with tocotrienols for many decades, but its therapeutic potential was limited to adjuvant or concurrent treatment regimens. Recent studies have focused on targeted drug delivery by enhancing the bioavailability through carriers, self-sustained emulsions, nanoparticles, and ethosomes. Epigenetic modulation and computer remodeling are other means that will help increase chemosensitivity. This review will focus on the systemic intracellular anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms that are stimulated and/or regulated by tocotrienols while highlighting its potent therapeutic properties in a diverse group of clinical diseases.

Tocopherol Enhances the Antioxidant Defense System and Histomorphometric Parameters in The Gastrointestinal Tract of Rats Treated with Sodium Arsenite

Arsenic compromises the gastrointestinal integrity and function via the body's anti-oxidative system breakdown.  Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effects of tocopherol on redox imbalance and histoarchitectural alterations in rats' gastrointestinal tract exposed to sodium arsenite. Sodium arsenite and graded doses of tocopherol were administered orally into experimental rats assigned to different groups for four weeks concurrently. Redox status assay was done in homogenized samples by spectrophotometry. Parietal cell mass and mucous cell density (stomach), villus height and crypt depth (ileum), goblet cells count, and crypt depth (colon) were evaluated by histomorphometry. Inflammatory cells infiltration was also assessed using a semi-quantitative procedure. Sodium arsenite caused a significant increase in Malondialdehyde and Myeloperoxidase but, decreased Superoxide dismutase, Catalase, Nitric oxide, Glutathione peroxidase, Glutathione, and Glutathione-S-Transferase. Tocopherol treatment reversed the changes (p<0.05) though not largely dose-dependent. Furthermore, tocopherol annulled sodium arsenite-induced increase in parietal cell mass and decrease in mucous cell density in the stomach, decrease in villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio in the ileum, and decrease in goblets cells and increase in crypt depth in the colon. Moreover, activated inflammatory cell infiltration by sodium arsenite was mitigated by tocopherol. Sodium arsenite provokes not only marked inflammatory cellular infiltration but a focal loss of glands, hyperplasia of crypts, atrophic villi, and hypertrophy of Peyer's patches in the intestines, which are all lessened with tocopherol treatment.  These findings underscore the anti-oxidative properties of tocopherol as a potent dietary factor against sodium arsenite toxicity in the gastrointestinal tract. Keywords: Tocopherol, arsenic, stomach, ileum, colon.

Cruciferous Vegetables and Their Bioactive Metabolites: from Prevention to Novel Therapies of Colorectal Cancer

The Brassicaceae family, known as cruciferous vegetables, includes many economically important species, mainly edible oil plants, vegetable species, spice plants, and feed plants. Cruciferous vegetables are foods rich in nutritive composition and are also a good source of dietary fiber. Besides, cruciferous vegetables contain various bioactive chemicals known as glucosinolates and S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide, including sulphur-containing cancer-protective chemicals. Numerous studies have reported that daily intake of sulphurous vegetables helps prevent cancer formation and reduces cancer incidence, especially in colorectal cancer, through various mechanisms. The potential mechanisms of these compounds in preventing cancer in experimental studies are as follows: protecting cells against DNA damage, inactivating carcinogenic substances, showing antiviral and antibacterial effects, triggering apoptosis in cells with disrupted structure, inhibiting tumour cell migration causing metastasis and the development of tumour-feeding vessels (angiogenesis). These beneficial anticancer effects of cruciferous vegetables are generally associated with glucosinolates in their composition and some secondary metabolites, as well as other phenolic compounds, seed oils, and dietary fiber in the literature. This review aims to examine to the roles of cruciferous vegetables and their important bioactive metabolites in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.

Creeping Wood Sorrel and Chromium Picolinate Effect on the Nutritional Composition and Lipid Oxidative Stability of Broiler Meat

The study investigates the efficacy of Cr in broilers, aiming to evaluate the effects of Chromium picolinate (CrPic) in association with creeping wood sorrel powder (CWS) on the proximate composition, fatty acids profile, bioactive nutrients and lipid oxidative stability of broiler meat. A total of 120 Cobb 500 chickens were assigned into three treatments: a control diet (C) and two test diets, including 200 µg/kg diet CrPic (E1), and 200 µg/kg diet CrPic +10 g CWS/kg diet (E2). Dietary supplementation with Cr + CWS significantly improved the concentration of n − 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), while its n − 6/n − 3 ratio decreased in comparison to the group receiving Cr and the conventional diet. The concentration of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) significantly increased in the breast meat collected from the E2 group than that from the C group. Dietary administration of Cr and CWS improved lutein and zeaxanthin content, decreased Fe and Zn levels of the breast, and increased Zn deposition in the thigh samples. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration decreased more in the thigh meat of the supplemental groups (E1, E2) than in that from the C group. In conclusion, the current study suggests that Cr together with CWS can be a viable option as antioxidant sources for broiler diets, promoting the nutritional quality of meat.

Vitamin E in foodstuff: Nutritional, analytical, and food technology aspects

Vitamin E is a group of isoprenoid chromanols with different biological activities. It comprises eight oil-soluble compounds: four tocopherols, namely, α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherols; and four tocotrienols, namely, α-, β-, γ, and δ-tocotrienols. Vitamin E isomers are well-known for their antioxidant activity, gene-regulation effects, and anti-inflammatory and nephroprotective properties. Considering that vitamin E is exclusively synthesized by photosynthetic organisms, animals can only acquire it through their diet. Plant-based food is the primary source of vitamin E; hence, oils, nuts, fruits, and vegetables with high contents of vitamin E are mostly consumed after processing, including industrial processes and home-cooking, which involve vitamin E profile and content alteration during their preparation. Accordingly, it is essential to identify the vitamin E content and profile in foodstuff to match daily intake requirements. This review summarizes recent advances in vitamin E chemistry, metabolism and metabolites, current knowledge on their contents and profiles in raw and processed plant foods, and finally, their modern developments in analytical methods.

The Effect of Heat Stress and Vitamin and Micro-Mineral Supplementation on Some Mineral Digestibility and Electrolyte Balance of Pigs

Heat stress (HS) can have detrimental effects on intestinal integrity and can jeopardize the digestibility performance in pigs. With prolonged exposure to heat, some thermoregulatory processes in pigs are potential causes for electrolyte imbalance. The adverse effects of HS on mineral digestibility and electrolyte balance are not widely studied and information on its abatement through vitamin and micro-mineral supplementation in combinations above the recommended level in pigs is limited. The aim of this study is to research this area. Thirty-six Danbred hybrid barrows (65.1 ± 2.81kg) were distributed among the four treatments (n = 9 per treatment): (1) thermo-neutral (19.5 ± 0.9 °C, RH- 85.9 ± 7.3%)+ control diet (TC) (NRC, 2012), (2) HS (28.9 ± 0.9 °C, RH- 60.4 ± 4.3%) + control diet (HC), (3) HS +diet with elevated levels of vitamins (vitamin E and C) and micro-minerals (Zn and Se) (HT1), and (4) HS + diet with further elevation of vitamins and micro-minerals (HT2). Plasma samples were collected on days 7 and 21 of the experiment to investigate electrolyte concentration. During the experimental period, feces samples were collected from pigs placed in digestibility cages (six pigs from each treatment) to investigate the digestibility of Ca, P, Na, Se, and Zn. HS did not decrease the digestibility of minerals, but elevated supplementation of the selected vitamins and trace minerals improved it significantly. HS caused a significant decrease of Cl- (p < 0.01) in plasma, indicating an imbalance. In conclusion, pigs can have some resilience against heat stress in terms of mineral digestibility. Proper vitamin and trace mineral supplementation are key factors in the ability of pigs to overcome the negative effects of HS.

Metabolism of natural forms of vitamin E and biological actions of vitamin E metabolites

Natural forms of vitamin E comprise four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. During the last twenty years, there have been breakthroughs in our understanding of vitamin E metabolism and biological activities of vitamin E metabolites. Research has established that tocopherols and tocotrienols are metabolized via ω-hydroxylase (CYP4F2)-initiated side chain oxidation to form 13'-hydroxychromanol and 13'-carobyxychromanol (13'-COOH). 13'-COOHs are further metabolized via β-oxidation and sulfation to intermediate carboxychromanols, terminal metabolite carboxyethyl-hydroxychroman (CEHC), and sulfated analogs. Animal and human studies show that γ-, δ-tocopherol and tocotrienols are more extensively metabolized than α-tocopherol (αT), as indicated by higher formation of CEHCs and 13'-COOHs from non-αT forms than those from αT. 13'-COOHs are shown to be inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-1/-2 and 5-lipoxygenase and much stronger than CEHCs for these activities. 13'-COOHs inhibit cancer cell growth, modulate cellular lipids and activate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and pregnane X receptor. Consistent with mechanistic findings, αT-13'-COOH or δTE-13'-COOH, respective metabolites of αT or δ-tocotrienol, show anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventive effects, modulates the gut microbiota and prevents β-amyloid formation in mice. Therefore, 13'-COOHs are a new class of bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities and potentially capable of modulating lipid and drug metabolism. Based on the existing evidence, this author proposes that metabolites may contribute to disease-preventing effects of γ-, δ-tocopherol and tocotrienols. The role of metabolites in αT's actions may be somewhat limited considering controlled metabolism of αT because of its association with tocopherol-transport protein and less catabolism by CYP4F2 than other vitamin E forms.

Modulatory Effects of Alpha- and Gamma-Tocopherol on the Mitochondrial Respiratory Capacity and Membrane Potential in an In Vitro Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Increased amyloid-beta (Aβ) and amyloid precursor protein (APP) in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients are common pathological hallmarks mediating the disease progression. Growing evidence also suggests that mitochondrial abnormalities are an early feature in the pathogenesis of AD. Intervention with antioxidants has received great interest as a molecular strategy for the manipulation of mitochondrial function. Our previous preliminary study using in vitro cell models expressing different types of APP demonstrated that treatment with alpha-tocopherol (ATF) or gamma-tocopherol (GTF) modulates mitochondrial function by reducing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), increasing the production of ATP and preventing apoptosis events, especially in cells expressing the mutant APP form. Thus, we hypothesized that ATF or GTF treatment might also alter mitochondrial metabolic pathways such as oxidative phosphorylation. The present study aimed to investigate the role of ATF and GTF in modulating mitochondrial oxidative metabolism using high-resolution respirometry. Our results showed that both ATF and GTF increased the respiratory capacity and membrane potential in the ROUTINE and OXPHOS_CI-LINKED states as well as complex IV enzyme activity in wild-type and mutant APP-overexpressing SH-SY5Y cells. Although preliminary, these findings indicate that ATF and GTF modulate mitochondrial oxidative metabolism in APP-overexpressing cells and, in part, may contribute to the planning of strategies for utilizing vitamin E isomers against mitochondrial-related diseases such as AD.

Cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, and metabolism to short-chain metabolites of 11'-α-tocomonoenol is similar to RRR-α-tocopherol in HepG2 cells

Contrary to the major vitamin E congener α-tocopherol, which carries a saturated sidechain, and α-tocotrienol, with a threefold unsaturated sidechain, little is known about the intracellular fate of α-tocomonoenol, a minor vitamin E derivative with a single double bond in C11'-position of the sidechain. We hypothesized that, due to structural similarities, the uptake and metabolism of α-tocomonoenol will resemble that of α-tocopherol. Cytotoxicity, cellular uptake of α-tocomonoenol, α-tocopherol and α-tocotrienol and conversion into the short-chain metabolites αCEHC and αCMBHC were studied in HepG2 cells. α-Tocomonoenol did not show significant effects on cell viability and its uptake was similar to that observed for α-tocopherol and significantly lower than for α-tocotrienol. α-Tocomonoenol was mainly metabolized to αCMBHC in liver cells, but to a lower extent than α-tocotrienol, while α-tocopherol was not metabolized in quantifiable amounts at all. In summary, the similarities in the cytotoxicity, uptake and metabolism of α-tocomonoenol and α-tocopherol suggest that this minor vitamin E congener deserves more attention in future research with regard to its potential vitamin E activity.

Vitamin E: How much is enough, too much and why!

α-Tocopherol (α-T) is a required dietary nutrient for humans and thus is a vitamin. This narrative review focuses on vitamin E structures, functions, biological determinants and its deficiency symptoms in humans. The mechanisms for the preferential α-T tissue enrichment in the human body include the α-T transfer protein (TTPA) and the preferential metabolism of non-α-T forms. Potential new α-T biomarkers, pharmacokinetic data, and whether there are better approaches to evaluate and set the α-T dietary requirement are discussed. Finally, the possible role of α-T supplements in delay of chronic diseases and the evaluation of vitamin E safety are considered.

Revisiting food-sourced vitamins for consumer diet and health needs: a perspective review, from vitamin classification, metabolic functions, absorption, utilization, to balancing nutritional requirements

The significant attention gained by food-sourced vitamins has provided insights into numerous current researches; for instance, the potential reversal of epigenetic age using a diet and lifestyle intervention, the balance between food and dietary supplements in the general population, the role of diet and food intake in age-related macular degeneration, and the association of dietary supplement use, nutrient intake and mortality among adults. As relevant literature about food-sourced vitamin increases, continuous synthesis is warranted. To supplement existing information, this perspective review discussed food-sourced vitamins for consumer diet and health needs, scoping from vitamin absorption, metabolic functions, utilization, to balancing nutritional requirements. Relevant literatures were identified through a search of databases like Google Scholar, Web of Science, the Interscience Online Library, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. We demonstrated that vitamins whether from plant- and animal-based sources are prerequisites for the metabolic functions of the human body. The fat- and water-soluble classification of vitamins remains consistent with their respective absorption and dissolution potentials, underpinned by numerous physiological functions. Vitamins, largely absorbed in the small intestine, have their bioavailability dependent on the food composition, its associated interactions, as well as alignment with their metabolic functions, which involves antioxidants, coenzymes, electron acceptor/donor, and hormones. Moreover, vitamin deficiencies, in every form, pose a serious threat to human health. Vitamin toxicities remain rare, but can still occur mainly from supplementation, although it appears much less in water-soluble vitamins of which some excesses get readily removed by the human body, different from the fat-soluble ones that are stored in tissues and organs. Besides discussions of absorption, transport, and cellular uptake of vitamins, this perspective review also included approaches to meeting vitamin requirements and therapeutic strategies against micronutrient deficiency and COVID-19. We have also attempted on how to strike the balance between food-sourced vitamins and dietary supplements.

Rice Compounds with Impact on Diabetes Control

Rice is one of the most cultivated and consumed cereals worldwide. It is composed of starch, which is an important source of diet energy, hypoallergenic proteins, and other bioactive compounds with known nutritional functionalities. Noteworthy is that the rice bran (outer layer of rice grains), a side-stream product of the rice milling process, has a higher content of bioactive compounds than white rice (polished rice grains). Bran functional ingredients such as γ-oryzanol, phytic acid, ferulic acid, γ-aminobutyric acid, tocopherols, and tocotrienols (vitamin E) have been linked to several health benefits. In this study, we reviewed the effects of rice glycemic index, macronutrients, and bioactive compounds on the pathological mechanisms associated with diabetes, identifying the rice compounds potentially exerting protective activities towards disease control. The effects of starch, proteins, and bran bioactive compounds for diabetic control were reviewed and provide important insights about the nutritional quality of rice-based foods.

Evaluation of total phenols content, anti-DPPH activity and the content of selected antioxidants in the honeybee drone brood homogenate

The subject of the present research is the evaluation of health-promoting properties caused by the presence of some vitamins as well as the antioxidative potential of the honeybee drone brood homogenate (DBH). The study used 139 homogenate samples obtained from various apiaries and collected over 3 years, three times during each beekeeping season. Samples differed in terms of varroa infestation, stage of brood development, location of the apiary, and the degree of environmental contamination. The content of ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, all-trans-retinol, and coenzyme Q₁₀ in the tested samples was determined through the application of HPLC/DAD/UV and LC/QQQ/MS methods. The antioxidant potential of samples was assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu and DPPH methods.

Profiles for identifying problematic dietary habits in a sample of recreational Spanish cyclists and triathletes

There is a lack of sufficient information on the dietary intake and nutritional supplementation of recreational endurance athletes throughout the year. The present observational study sought to assess the dietary intake and nutritional supplementation habits of recreational cyclists and triathletes from Spain. 4,037 cyclists and triathletes completed self-report measures. Nutritional profiles were developed and differences were examined according to sporting discipline and gender. Differences between groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney U or chi-squared test. Next, micro- and macro-nutrients were grouped according to whether or not guideline intake amounts were met. The clustering of dietary habits was then examined via K-means cluster analysis. Triathletes took more supplements than cyclists (X2 = 36.489; p value = .000) and females took more supplements than males (X2 = 5.920; p value = .017). Females and triathletes reported greater protein and CHO consumption than males and cyclists, respectively. Triathletes also reported a higher consumption of total fat, MUFA, PUFA, EPA, DHA and fibre. Females and triathletes tended to consume more vitamins and minerals than males and cyclists, respectively. Two main dietary habit clusters emerged which may be used to inform nutritional interventions targeting recreational athletes not meeting nutritional requirements. There is an imbalance in the main nutrients making up the diet of recreational Spanish athletes, characterised by insufficient CHO and excessive protein.

Vitamin E: A Review of Its Application and Methods of Detection When Combined with Implant Biomaterials

Vitamin E is a common compound used for tocopherols and tocotrienols (α, β, γ, δ); it is the component of many natural products of both plant and animal origin. Thanks to its powerful antioxidant capacity, vitamin E has been very successful in hip and knee arthroplasty, used to confer resistance to oxidation to irradiated UHMWPE. The positive results of these studies have made vitamin E an important object of research in the biomedical field, highlighting other important properties, such as anti-bacterial, -inflammatory, and -cancer activities. In fact, there is an extensive literature dealing with vitamin E in different kinds of material processing, drug delivery, and development of surface coatings. Vitamin E is widely discussed in the literature, and it is possible to find many reviews that discuss the biological role of vitamin E and its applications in food packaging and cosmetics. However, to date, there is not a review that discusses the biomedical applications of vitamin E and that points to the methods used to detect it within a solid. This review specifically aims to compile research about new biomedical applications of vitamin E carried out in the last 20 years, with the intention of providing an overview of the methodologies used to combine it with implantable biomaterials, as well as to detect and characterize it within these materials.

Tocopherols and Tocotrienols-Bioactive Dietary Compounds; What Is Certain, What Is Doubt?

Tocopherols and tocotrienols are natural compounds of plant origin, available in the nature. They are supplied in various amounts in a diet, mainly from vegetable oils, some oilseeds, and nuts. The main forms in the diet are α- and γ-tocopherol, due to the highest content in food products. Nevertheless, α-tocopherol is the main form of vitamin E with the highest tissue concentration. The α- forms of both tocopherols and tocotrienols are considered as the most metabolically active. Currently, research results indicate also a greater antioxidant potential of tocotrienols than tocopherols. Moreover, the biological role of vitamin E metabolites have received increasing interest. The aim of this review is to update the knowledge of tocopherol and tocotrienol bioactivity, with a particular focus on their bioavailability, distribution, and metabolism determinants in humans. Almost one hundred years after the start of research on α-tocopherol, its biological properties are still under investigation. For several decades, researchers' interest in the biological importance of other forms of vitamin E has also been growing. Some of the functions, for instance the antioxidant functions of α- and γ-tocopherols, have been confirmed in humans, while others, such as the relationship with metabolic disorders, are still under investigation. Some studies, which analyzed the biological role and mechanisms of tocopherols and tocotrienols over the past few years described new and even unexpected cellular and molecular properties that will be the subject of future research.

Understanding potential mechanisms of harm: the drivers of electronic cigarette-induced changes in alveolar macrophages, neutrophils, and lung epithelial cells

Electronic (e-) cigarettes are growing in popularity despite uncertainties regarding their long-term health implications. The link between cigarette smoking and initiation of chronic lung disease took decades to unpick so in vitro studies mimicking e-cigarette exposure aim to detect early indicators of harm. In response to e-cigarette exposure, alveolar macrophages adopt a proinflammatory phenotype of increased secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, reduction in phagocytosis, and efferocytosis and reactive oxygen species generation. These effects are largely driven by free radical exposure, changes in PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, nicotine-induced reduction in phagocytosis receptors, and impaired lipid homeostasis leading to a foam-like lipid-laden phenotype. Neutrophils exhibit disrupted chemotaxis and transmigration to chemokines, reduced phagocytosis and bacterial killing, and an increase in protease secretion without corresponding antiproteases in response to e-cigarette exposure. This is driven by an altered ability to respond and to polarize toward chemoattractants, an activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway and inability to assemble NADPH oxidase. E-cigarettes induce lung epithelial cells to display decreased ciliary beat frequency and ion channel conductance as well as changes in chemokine secretion and surface protein expression. Changes in gene expression, mitochondrial function, and signaling pathways have been demonstrated in lung epithelial cells to explain these changes. Many functional outputs of alveolar macrophages, neutrophils, and lung epithelial cells have not been fully explored in the context of e-cigarette exposure and the underlying driving mechanisms are poorly understood. This review discusses current evidence surrounding the effects of e-cigarettes on alveolar macrophages, neutrophils, and lung epithelial cells with particular focus on the cellular mechanisms of change.

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method for measuring vitamin E acetate in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid

We investigated the suitability of isotope-dilution liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry for identifying vitamin E acetate (VEA) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. This new method demonstrates high accuracy, selectivity, and sensitivity, with mean recoveries higher than 90%, coefficients of variation ranging from 1.5% to 4.5%, and a limit of detection of 1.10 ng/mL. Calibration curves were linear (R² > 0.99). The linear range and detection limit of the method were adequate for identifying VEA in 48 of 51 BAL fluid samples collected from people with lung injury resulting from e-cigarettes, or vaping, product use. We conclude that this method is an effective tool for studying VEA accumulation in lungs caused by using e-cigarettes, or vaping, products that contain VEA.

Role of food nutrients and supplementation in fighting against viral infections and boosting immunity: A review

BACKGROUND

The viral infections can be highly contagious and easily transmissible, which even can lead to a pandemic, like the recent COVID-19 outbreak, causing massive deaths worldwide. While, still the best practical way to prevent the transmission of viruses is to practice self-sanitation and follow social distancing principles, enhancing the individual's immunity through the consumption of proper foods containing balanced nutrients can have significant result against viral infections. Foods containing nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, few polysaccharides, and some non-nutrients (i.e. polyphenols) have shown therapeutic potential against the function of viruses and can increase the immunity of people.

SCOPE AND APPROACH

The results of conducted works aiming for studying the potential antiviral characteristics of diverse groups of foods and food's nutrients (in terms of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals) are critically discussed.

KEY FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION

Nutrients, besides playing an important role in maintaining normal physiology of human's body and healthiness, are also required for enhancing the immunity of the body and can be effective against viral infections. They can present antiviral capacity either by entering into the defensive mechanism directly through interfering with the target viruses, or indirectly through activating the cells associated with the adaptive immune system. During the current situation of COVID-19 pandemic (the lack of proper curative viral drug), enhancing the immunity of individual's body through proposing the appropriate diet (rich in both macro and micro-nutrients) is one of few practical preventive measures available in fighting against Coronaviruses, this significant health-threatening virus, as well as other viruses in general.

E-Cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury: A Review for Pathologists

CONTEXT.—

Vaping is the inhalation of heated aerosol from a small battery-powered device as a method to deliver nicotine or other substances. A recent outbreak of severe respiratory illness primarily in the United States has put a spotlight on vaping and its potential risks.

OBJECTIVE.—

To familiarize pathologists with vaping, the cytologic and histopathologic features of vaping-associated acute lung injury, and the role of pathology in this diagnosis.

DATA SOURCES.—

A targeted literature review was performed.

CONCLUSIONS.—

Most cases of vaping-associated lung injury have been linked to vaping products containing tetrahydrocannabinol or other cannabinoids. Lung biopsies show a spectrum of nonspecific acute lung injury patterns (organizing pneumonia, diffuse alveolar damage, acute fibrinous, and organizing pneumonia, or combinations of the above), accompanied by prominent, foamy macrophage accumulation. Injury is usually accentuated around small airways. Lipid-laden macrophages can be identified in bronchioloalveolar lavage fluid in most patients and these can be highlighted using lipid stains, such as oil red O, but the clinical utility of this finding remains unclear, as lipid-laden macrophages can be seen in a wide variety of processes and should not be relied upon to make the diagnosis. Classic histologic features of exogenous lipoid pneumonia have not been identified in tissue samples. Lightly pigmented macrophages, similar to those seen with traditional cigarette smoking, are present in some cases but are usually a minor feature. To date, no specific pathologic features for vaping-related injury have been identified, and it remains a diagnosis of exclusion that requires clinicopathologic correlation.

Antioxidant supplements in age-related macular degeneration: are they actually beneficial?

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is one of the prominent causes of central visual loss in the older age group in the urbanized, industrialized world. In recent years, many epidemiological studies and clinical trials have evaluated the role of antioxidants and micronutrients to prevent the progression of ARMD. In this article, we review some of these major studies. In addition, we review the absorption and bioavailability and possible undesirable effects of these nutrients after ingestion. The role of genotypes and inappropriate use of these supplements are also discussed. From all the above evidence, we conclude that it may not be prudent to prescribe these formulations without a proper assessment of the individual's health and dietary status. The effectiveness of all the components in antioxidant formulations is controversial. Thus, these supplements should not be prescribed just for the purpose of providing patients some kind of therapy, which may give a false sense of mental satisfaction.

Twelve-Week Daily Consumption of ad hoc Fortified Milk with ω-3, D, and Group B Vitamins Has a Positive Impact on Inflammaging Parameters: A Randomized Cross-Over Trial

Background and Aim: A state of chronic, subclinical inflammation known as inflammaging is present in elderly people and represents a risk factor for all age-related diseases. Dietary supplementation with ad hoc fortified foods seems an appealing strategy to counteract inflammaging. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of elderly-tailored fortified milk on inflammaging and different health parameters. Methods: A double-blind randomized cross-over study was performed on forty-eight volunteers aged 63–80 years. The fortified milk was enriched with ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA; docosahexaenoic acid, DHA), vitamins (25-hydroxyvitamin D, E, C, B6, B9, B12), and trace elements (zinc, selenium). The two intervention periods lasted for 12 weeks, with a 16-week washout intermission. Results: Compared to placebo, the consumption of fortified milk increased the circulating levels of different micronutrients, including vitamins and the ω-3 index of erythrocyte membranes. Conversely, it reduced the amount of arachidonic acid, homocysteine, and ω-6/ω-3 ratio. Conclusion: Twelve-week daily consumption of adhoc fortified milk has an overall positive impact on different health parameters related to inflammaging in the elderly.